How do Golgi tendon organs primarily respond?

Golgi tendon organs primarily respond to changes in muscle tension, providing crucial feedback to the central nervous system about the force being exerted by muscles. When a muscle contracts and the tension reaches a certain threshold, these proprioceptors are activated. Their primary function is to inhibit the active muscle to prevent excessive force generation, which can potentially lead to injury.

This safety mechanism is facilitated through a reflex arc where the Golgi tendon organs send signals to the spinal cord, which in turn activates inhibitory interneurons. These interneurons inhibit the motor neurons responsible for the contracting muscle, effectively reducing the muscle's activation and preventing tension buildup that could cause damage.

Thus, the correct answer highlights the role of Golgi tendon organs in inhibiting tension specifically in the activated muscle, ensuring that muscle contractions remain within safe limits and allowing for coordinated movement while protecting the surrounding musculature from potential strain or injury.